After the storm of pleasure had calmed, Kris set Thalassa back on her feet. Their lips didn't pull apart, but this time the kiss was slow and passionate, making the aftermath even better. When they broke apart, Thalassa finally let her gaze wander over the penthouse, now that the haze of passion had cleared. The space was expansive, with a floor-to-ceiling window on one side that looked out over the city, welcoming the stream of sunlight. The furniture was modern but lacked any real personality, with black leather couches and a sleek, chrome coffee table. That was all. “Nice place,” she commented slowly. Kris chuckled and hugged her from behind, nuzzling her neck. “I think what you mean is that I still haven’t learned a thing about decor. Even after all these years.” A chuckle bubbled out of her as she leaned back against his chest. “That too,” she teased, glancing up at him with a playful smile. But before she could get comfortable, Kris sighed and let his head rest against
Thalassa's words were like a comfort blanket that Kris had needed to be wrapped around for a long time.His eyes glistened as he whispered, "Thank you." His voice cracked with emotion. "You have no idea how much those words mean to me."A single tear fell from his eyes, and Thalassa’s reached up, brushing it away. “So, when am I finally going to get an official introduction to Tessa?”Kris blinked, caught off guard. “You… you actually want to meet her?”Thalassa laughed, a warm, genuine sound that filled the room. “Kris, what did you expect? Of course I want to meet your sweet angel.” Her eyes sparkled with excitement and sincerity.Kris’s heart melted. He cupped her face and kissed her, pouring all his gratitude and relief into it.༺❀༻༺❀༻༺❀༻At the Miller mansion, little Tessa was curled up in her room, sitting on the plush rug with her nanny. She was supposed to be playing a block game on her tablet, but the colorful blocks on the screen moved aimlessly.Boatemaa noticed Tessa's dow
Susan swallowed hard, her eyes wide as she stammered, “You’re already out of jail?”Kris’s gaze was sharp, sweeping over the suitcases stacked in the living room. “What the hell is going on here?” His voice was low, deadly.Susan recovered quickly, folding her arms defensively. “We’re doing what should’ve been done a long time ago,” she replied coldly. “We’re kicking Karen and her daughter out of the house.”Kris’s jaw clenched. “What made you think you had the right to do that?”Susan looked at him in disbelief, eyes narrowing. “What do you mean?” she asked, her voice rising. “We all know the truth now. Tessa isn’t our blood. She’s not part of this family, Kris. She doesn’t belong here.”Before Kris could answer, he felt a small body crash into him. Tessa had run straight to him, clinging to his leg, whimpering, “Daddy…” Kris dropped to one knee and wrapped her in a fierce hug. He pressed his lips to the top of her head, whispering, “It’s okay, baby. Daddy’s here.” He lifted his he
“Where are you taking my daughter?” Karen repeated.Kris clenched his jaw, holding Tessa protectively in his arms. “What does it look like, Karen? I’m taking her with me,” he replied through gritted teeth, his tone cold and unyielding.Karen scoffed, crossing her arms defiantly. “And what makes you think you have any right to do that?”“Because I’m her father,” Kris answered, his voice laced with frustration and a raw edge of pain.“Oh, so you remember that now?” Karen shot back, arching a brow. “Weren’t you saying something entirely different yesterday?”Kris’s face hardened. “Don’t be so cynical.”Karen’s eyes slid over to Thalassa, the annoyance on her face growing. “And why did you even bring her here?” she sneered. “Haven’t you done enough damage, Thalassa? After stealing my husband, now you want to steal my daughter too?”Thalassa’s gaze remained calm, though a flicker of irritation glimmered in her eyes. “I didn’t steal anything from you, Karen,” she replied, her voice smooth a
Karen’s face twisted in disbelief as she sputtered, “You can’t do that.”Kris tipped his head. “Oh, I can. And I will.”Karen shook her head vehemently. “Tessa isn’t even your real daughter.”For a moment, Kris felt a rush of pain flicker, but he pushed it down, hardening his expression as he looked at Karen.“I'm still her father by law. And trust me, the fact that she isn’t my blood won’t matter once I prove just how unfit you are to take care of her.”Karen opened her mouth to argue, but Kris had already turned away, moving toward Boatemaa and Tessa. He leaned down, pressing a tender kiss to Tessa’s forehead. “I have to go, sweetheart, but I’ll come see you very soon.”Tessa’s face fell, her small fingers clutching his sleeve. “You promise, daddy?”“I promise.” Kris smiled, trying to ease her worry, his heart aching as he pulled away. Tessa waved, her gaze shifting to Thalassa.“Bye-bye, pretty lady,” Karen’s eyes narrowed in irritation as she glared at Thalassa.Kris walked back
“Would it bother you if I did have feelings for him?”Zeke’s mind buzzed at Millie’s question, his mind pulling up a blank initially. Finally, he looked at her and said softly, “Of course, I would’ve been bothered.”Millie’s heart raced as she stepped closer, her voice almost a whisper. “Why, Zeke? Why would it have bothered you?”“Because… I wouldn’t want Kris to hurt you. Not the way he hurt Thalassa.” Zeke answered. The words fell flat, and he knew it. Why wasn't he satisfied with his own answer?“Oh,” Millie murmured, stepping back with a forced smile. “Of course.” Her shoulders slumped just slightly as she glanced down, hiding the sting of disappointment. Zeke cleared his throat, trying to shake the odd sensation in his chest. “You know I care about you, Millie.”She looked up, her heart heavy. “Yes.”'Just not the way I want you to,' she thought bitterly. Out loud, she replied, “Thank you for caring, Zeke.”Zeke nodded, but his chest still felt tight. Why had the thought of Mi
The sound of the lillies falling made Kris and Thalassa break the kiss. Thalassa pulled away from Kris, her eyes widening as she rose to her feet. “Zeke.”Zeke stared at her in disbelief, his face a mask of hurt and confusion. “You are… back together with Kris?” His voice was quiet and pained.Thalassa’s steps were hesitant as she moved toward him. “Yes… Kris and I were together again.”Zeke’s hands curled into fists by his sides, his knuckles white as he whispered, “Why?”She stopped, frowning slightly. “What do you mean?”He swallowed hard, fighting to keep his voice steady. “Did Kris guilt-trip you into this? Did he tell you that you had to make up for keeping Alex from him by being with him? Or did he threaten to take Alex away from you? Is that it?”Kris stiffened, his jaw clenching with fury, but before he could say anything, Thalassa stepped forward, her voice firm. “Do you think I’m a puppet, Zeke? That I could just be manipulated into this? No,” she shook her head, holding
Millie sat on the edge of the couch in the living room, her gaze fixed on the new phone Zeke had bought her just a few days ago. She chewed her lip, worried. It was late, and Zeke still wasn’t home. He’d mentioned having dinner at Thalassa’s, but he hadn’t said he’d be staying out this long—or that he wouldn’t answer her calls. She’d tried dialing his number several times, and each time, her stomach had clenched when he didn’t pick up. She couldn’t exactly call Thalassa or Luisa for reassurance, either. They still didn’t know she was staying here or about everything with Francis. So, she was left alone with her restless thoughts, glancing at the time every few minutes.Finally, the door clicked open, and she jumped to her feet. Relief flooded her as she saw Zeke walk in. But that relief quickly faded when she noticed the lost, weary look on his face. His hair was disheveled, his shoulders slumped, and his eyes looked far too heavy for someone who'd left in such high spirits.“Zeke,
“What’s wrong with my wife, doctor? Is she okay?” Kris questioned at the hospital after the doctor was done examining Thalassa. The doctor offered a reassuring smile. “Mr. Miller, please calm down. Your wife is perfectly fine.” Kris’s heart slowed just a little. “Then why did she faint?” Thalassa was sitting up on the hospital bed. Her brow furrowed, and her lips pressed into a thin line. “Doctor, it’s probably menopause,” she said matter-of-factly. “I haven’t had my period in two months. I know it happens earlier for some women.” She wasn't exactly pleased that she was having her menopause at 40 years old, but she had been expecting it. The doctor shook his head gently, a knowing smile on his face. “Mrs. Miller, it’s not menopause, I assure you.” That didn't help to assuage Kris's worry. “Then…what is it?” The doctor looked between them, savoring the moment before delivering the news. “Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Miller. You’re three months pregnant.” For a long second, sile
THIRTEEN YEARS LATERIt was the thirteenth anniversary of Kris and Thalassa’s remarriage, and as had become their tradition, it was a time for celebration with loved ones.The familiar hum of laughter and clinking silverware filled the air, creating a cozy, joyful atmosphere.At the adults’ table, Thalassa sat with her chin resting on her hand, her smile gentle as her gaze lingered on the people who had become their family. Alden and Luisa were seated across from her.Their three children—Andrew, the 12-year-old charmer; Matthew, the mischievous 9-year-old; and Emma, their 5-year-old firecracker—were occupying their seats at the kids’ table.Beside Alden and Luisa were Zeke and Millie, who had flown in from New York with their boisterous 10-year-old triplets, Max, Mia, and Miles.Alex and Tessa were sitting at the adults' table. No longer children, they'd blossomed into young adults. Alex had grown into a tall, broad-shouldered, and cool-headed teenager, much like his father. While Te
The car pulled into a luxurious beachfront resort, its white walls gleaming against the backdrop of the turquoise ocean.Thalassa blinked, the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore stirring something deep in her memory.They were in Cabo San Lucas.The moment it clicked in her mind, her breath hitched. She glanced out at the golden sands stretching endlessly before her, the rugged cliffs towering in the distance, and the sparkling waters that seemed to stretch into infinity. This wasn’t just any place.It was the place she'd thought she and Kris would be going for their first honeymoon while getting married five years ago. But of course, right after their wedding, Kris had cancelled their honeymoon.Her chest tightened as a surge of emotions threatened to overwhelm her. She turned to Kris, her voice barely above a whisper. “You remembered.”Kris’s lips curved into a soft smile as he reached for her hand, brushing his thumb over her knuckles.“Of course I remembered,” he said
After his aunt disappeared from sight, Kris made his way back to Thalassa on the dance floor. She stood there, her eyes soft and grateful, watching him approach. Her expression said everything—how much his unwavering defense against Cynthia meant to her. When he reached her, she tilted her head and whispered, "Thank you."Kris cupped her cheek, brushing his thumb against her skin. “You don’t have to thank me, love,” he murmured.Straightening, Kris raised his voice to the room, announcing, “Alright, everyone! Let’s get back to celebrating!” The guests cheered, and almost immediately, the jovial atmosphere returned, laughter and clinking glasses echoing in the air.As the music played on, Kris slid his arms around Thalassa’s waist, pulling her close. Before she could react, he dipped his head, nuzzling her neck with deliberate passion. The soft tickle of his lips against her skin sent a shiver down her spine, and she let out a surprised laugh.“Kris,” she whispered, her laughter bub
Kris’s fingers trembled slightly as he slid the delicate band onto Thalassa's finger, his gaze locked onto hers.Her lips quivered, tears glistening in her eyes, and when she looked down at her hand adorned with his promise, she sniffled and quipped through her tears,“Now how am I supposed to top that vow?”A ripple of laughter echoed through the guests, softening the intensity of the moment. Kris chuckled along with them, his own eyes wet as he mouthed, I love you.Zeke stepped forward with the second ring, offering it to Thalassa with a small nod of encouragement. She took a deep breath, steadying her emotions as she began her vows.“Kris,” she started, her voice trembling but firm. “We’ve been through more than a lot of couples ever have since we fell in love. We've experienced more heartaches than a lot of couples have. We've cried more tears than a lot of couples have. But we’ve also survived more than most couples could ever dream of surviving. Despite everything, every obstacl
ONE MONTH LATER... The beach was transformed into a paradise, a breathtaking blend of romance and nature. Rows of white chairs with soft blue ribbons faced an altar made of driftwood, wrapped in delicate white fabric that fluttered in the breeze. Seashells and flowers adorned the aisle, their fragrance mingling with the salty ocean air. Lanterns filled with candles were set along the path, their flames flickering gently despite the sunlight. The waves whispered as they lapped the shore, a soothing background to the laughter and murmurs of the gathered guests. Among the guests sat a healthy Juana, her face radiant with happiness. Though she now had to walk with the help of a cane, her physiotherapist had assured her that she would soon be walking on her own two feet. Kris stood at the altar, his fingers clasped tightly in front of him. He adjusted his tie for the umpteenth time. “Dude, you're acting like you haven't done this before." Alden chuckled, standing to his left as his
Tessa pulled back from the hug first, her little hands clasped together as she looked up at Alex with wide, curious eyes. "Do you want to play with my dollhouse?" she asked, her voice light and full of hope. Alex tilted his head, thinking. "Okay," he said, then quickly added, "But we will play with my toy cars after. Okay?" "Okay!" Tessa agreed with a grin. "Let’s go!" The two children turned and, hand in hand, skipped off together, their laughter echoing. Kris and Thalassa watched them go, a shared warmth blooming between them as they stood side by side. Rising to his feet, Kris turned to Thalassa, noticing the shimmer of tears in her eyes. His brows knitted together in concern as he stepped closer. "What’s wrong?" he asked softly, brushing a stray tear from her cheek. Thalassa smiled, but it was tinged with a bittersweet emotion. "It’s just… Alex has always wanted a little sister. Ever since he was old enough to understand what that meant. I never thought I’d be able to give
Kris and Thalassa both knelt as Alex barreled into their arms, his small frame colliding with Thalassa first. His tiny arms wrapped tightly around her neck as he exclaimed, "Mummy! I missed you, Mummy!"Thalassa’s arms encircled him, her voice trembling as she whispered, "I missed you too, sweetheart. So much." Her fingers gently stroked his hair as their joy filled the room. Despite himself, Kris suddenly felt a slight wave of anxiety.He had only spent a few days in New York with Alex weeks ago. Sure, they spoke on video calls almost daily, but what if the boy didn’t greet him with the same joy? What if Alex still felt distant toward him?But as if sensing his hesitation, Alex, while still hugging Thalassa, stretched one small arm toward Kris.“Daddy, come!” he said, his voice warm and inviting.Kris felt his chest swell with emotion. A grin broke across his face as he leaned into the embrace, his arms encircling both Thalassa and Alex. Together, the three of them shared a family h
Kris was in Tessa's room, leaning against the doorframe, his gaze fixed on the small figure curled up in bed. Her breathing was soft and even, her chest rising and falling rhythmically under the fluffy pink comforter. Moments ago, she had clung to him, her small hands gripping his shirt as she begged him to promise over and over again that he was her daddy, her only daddy, and that he would never let the bad man take her away.Now, she slept peacefully, her expression serene, as though the weight of her fears had finally been lifted after his promises.The sound of soft footsteps behind him pulled Kris from his thoughts. He turned to see Thalassa standing in the doorway, a faint smile on her lips.“It’s done,” she said simply. stepping beside him. “That coward is in jail.”“Good." Kris gritted his teeth together, feeling a surge of relief. That scoundrel was finally where he belonged. But he was confused about one thing.“Why now?” he asked. “You had evidence against him all this tim